Well.. no. But let’s be honest- it’s not exactly a walk in the park either
Listen, I love your babies.
Bring me all the babies.
But when it comes to house hunting? There’s a reason real estate agents sometimes let out a tiny “oh no” when the whole family piles out of the car.
Here’s why it’s totally okay to schedule that showing solo (or bring backup if needed) — and how doing so can actually help you find your dream home faster and with less stress.
1. Your feral sweethearts are in someone else’s house.
I know, your kids are angels at home (most of the time) — but a stranger’s home with breakables, stairs, and zero child-proofing? That’s a jungle gym just waiting to happen.
It’s hard to really see a home when you’re also:
- Playing hide-and-seek with a toddler in someone’s linen closet
- Apologizing for toy-fueled chaos
- Whisper-hissing “don’t touch that” for 30 minutes straight
You need your focus. You need your “Could we really live here?” mindset. And let’s be real — it’s one thing to have fingerprints on your glass table (although if you have toddlers, you probably don’t have a glass table) — it’s another to leave them on someone else’s.
2. Just because you visit a house doesn’t mean it’s the one
Kids don’t always get that. They walk in, pick their “room,” start planning paint colors, and suddenly this house is theirs. And when it falls through or isn’t the right fit?
Cue the heartbreak. And the questions. And the meltdown.
Let’s save that emotional rollercoaster for the house that really has potential.
3. Mama… this is YOUR house too.
Say it louder for the moms in the back:
✨ THIS. IS. YOUR. HOUSE. TOO. ✨
That means you deserve to:
- Run your hand over the kitchen counters you’ve dreamed of
- Imagine that 5 minutes of peace in your new soaker tub (door locked, of course)
- Stand in the primary closet and ask, “Will ALL my leggings fit in here?”
You deserve 30–45 minutes to think clearly, dream boldly, and really decide if this house works for your family — not just in square footage, but in how it feels.
When you have No Other Option
We get it—sometimes, leaving the kids at home just isn’t feasible. Whether it’s a last-minute showing or your usual childcare isn’t available, bringing your little ones along is sometimes the only choice. While it can be challenging, with a bit of preparation, you can make the experience smoother for everyone involved.
1. Bring Reinforcements
If possible, enlist a friend or family member to accompany you. Having someone dedicated to watching the kids allows you to focus on evaluating the property. This person can keep the children engaged in the backyard or another safe area, ensuring they stay entertained and out of trouble.
2. Do Your Homework
Before the showing, gather as much information as you can about the property. Ask your real estate agent questions like:
- How old is the roof?
- Is there a homeowners association (HOA)?
- Is the property on septic or sewer?
- Does it use well water or public water?
- What is the age of the HVAC system?
Having these answers beforehand means you can concentrate on the home’s layout and condition during the showing, rather than trying to remember all your questions while keeping an eye on the kids.
3. Pack a “Showtime” Bag
Prepare a bag with snacks, drinks, toys, coloring books, or electronic devices to keep your children occupied during the showing. This not only keeps them entertained but also helps minimize disruptions.
4. Set Expectations
Before entering the property, have a quick chat with your kids about the importance of being respectful and staying close. Setting clear expectations can help prevent potential mishaps.
5. Stay Positive and Patient
Remember, kids are naturally curious and may be excited about the prospect of a new home. Be patient with them and try to involve them in the process when appropriate. For instance, ask them what they think of the backyard, or is this garage big enough for all your sports stuff.
While bringing children to home showings isn’t ideal, sometimes it’s unavoidable. With a bit of planning and the right mindset, you can navigate the experience successfully. After all, finding the perfect home is a family affair!
Whether you decide to bring your little ones to showings or arrange for them to stay elsewhere, remember that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to house hunting with a family. Each option comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. The key is to plan ahead, stay flexible, and keep your family’s needs at the forefront. After all, you’re not just searching for a house; you’re looking for a place where your family’s next chapter will unfold. So take a deep breath, trust your instincts, and know that with a bit of preparation and patience, you’ll find the perfect home for your crew.
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